Online shopping revolutionized how people buy everyday goods. But where does one go when the ordinary wont suffice? Shoppers sometimes need help finding the extraordinary, the odd and the downright indescribable. Flea markets are the answer for people who prefer to discover treasures from a time gone by. Here are some spots to shop for gifts and goods that arent so easy to find.
By Greg Elwell | Photos by Garett Fisbeck
4700 S. Bryant Ave.
405-550-2689
Just as your mother taught you, presentation matters. Thats why Karens Flea Market includes a picture matting and framing section. If you find a vintage photo that speaks to you or a classic movie poster that your friend would go ape over, you can buy it and then get it framed at the same place. Theres much more to discover, including used toys, affordable instruments, handbags and accessories.
1227 N. May Ave.
405-942-1214
Antique Co-op stocks its store with help from a network of more than 70 antique dealers selling pottery, statues, art glass, furniture, fine art and collectibles. Youll find furniture that is as much a work of art as the items displayed on its store shelves. Antique Co-op was founded in 1989, and the selection has grown year after year, making it a destination for bargain hunters and art collectors alike.
920 N. May Ave.
405-948-8250
Schedule a few hours to stroll down memory lane at Memory Market. Revel in reminders of a childhood well spent with Coca-Cola collectibles, video games and obscure toys. Search for a gift that no one else could give by locating a reclaimed board game or rare trading card. After wandering through the aisles, its a fair bet youll find something you didnt even know you were looking for.
1111 S. Eastern Ave.
405-670-2611
If you cant find something outrageous at the granddaddy of Oklahoma Citys flea market scene, Old Paris Flea Market, youre not looking very hard. Old Paris vendors sell pets, T-shirts, knives, toys, Playboy magazines, hats made from Crown Royal bags and almost anything you can imagine. Theres even a bar in back in case you need a refresher before heading back to find more deals.
1104 NW 10th St.
Oddities are the order of the day at The Basement, where customers find whimsical knickknacks and vintage curiosities. The consignment shop boasts a variety of vendors that keep the store well-stocked with items for those with eclectic tastes and an eye for the unique. Regardless of budgets big or small, you can find something at The Basement to decorate your home or give as a one-of-a-kind gift.
7905 NE 23rd St., Spencer
405-427-0051
This weekends-only outdoor swap meet is a great place to haggle, buy or barter for all manner of goods. Open 5:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, its easy to while away a lazy day looking for plants, used bicycles and Native American beadcraft and watching Western re-enactments.
RINK Gallery
3200 N. Rockwell Ave., Bethany
405-787-7465
Filling out a new home is easy at RINK Gallery, where you can buy everything from dining room and bedroom sets to antique clocks and custom-printed T-shirts. Its an excellent place to find quality goods and wander about, especially when the shop offers a wine-and-cheese Sip & Shop 6-8 p.m. every Thursday and free hot dogs 1-5 p.m. on weekends. Whether looking for something big or small or just looking to be entertained, RINK is the place to be.